Celebrate Country Music Legend Hank Williams Sr. This Weekend

Celebrate a classic country legend with ties to the New River Gorge. On September 22, enjoy live music, craft beer and wine, local food and classic cars in Downtown Oak Hill at the Hank Williams Sr. Tribute and Craft Beer and Wine Festival!
Hank Williams’ Legacy
If you don’t know Hank Williams, many would say you don’t know classic country music. Williams is considered one of the most popular country music singer-songwriters in the United States.
Born in Alabama in 1923, Williams was only 13 years old when he made his radio debut. Throughout the 40s and 50s, he wrote and recorded many hits for himself and other artists. Songs like “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry,” “Your Cheatin’ Heart” and “Hey, Good Lookin’” are still well-known today.
Unfortunately with Williams’ increasing fame came a steady decline in his health. The singer-songwriter had a spinal condition called spina bifida, which affected his health from a young age. In 1951, he suffered a heart attack, but was able to recover and was cleared by a doctor to keep performing. But on January 1, 1953, Williams and his driver were on the way to a concert venue in Ohio. The driver pulled over in Oak Hill, where he discovered that Williams had passed away from a heart attack during the drive. He was just 29 years old.
A Fitting Tribute
Because of Williams’ ties to Oak Hill, the city honors him with a tribute festival every September near the singer’s birthday. This year’s event will be held on September 22 from 2 – 10 p.m. on Main Street in Downtown Oak Hill.
Of course, live music is the main focus of the tribute festival, so get ready for a toe tappin’ good time! Four bands will take the stage at the Lively Amphitheater: John “The Blues Troll” Taylor the Bing Brothers Band ft. Jake Krack, John Lilly and the Hank Williams Sr. Tribute Band and Black Garlic.
West Virginia breweries and wineries will also be at the festival offering samples, including Weathered Ground Brewery, Bridge Brew Works and Kirkwood Winery. Tasting tickets will be sold at the gate.
In addition to libations and live music, event attendees can also enjoy a classic car cruise-in, local food vendors and artisans.
The festival is free to attend, but tickets for wine and beer tastings will be available for purchase during the festival.
What’s your favorite Hank Williams Sr. song?